How It Works — From Booking to Feeling Better
Nervous about what happens? Here's every step — before, during, and after. No surprises, no jargon.
Before your appointment
There's very little to prepare. No fasting, no special diet, no complicated instructions. Just a few things that will make your visit smoother.
What to eat and drink
Eat normally — no fasting required. Stay hydrated before your appointment.
What to wear
Loose sleeves or a short-sleeved top. We need easy access to your arm for the cannula.
What to bring
Photo ID, any recent blood results (within 3 months), and a list of current medications.
Good to know: It's a chair, not a bed. Most patients read, scroll their phone, or nap. Think of it more like sitting in a comfortable recliner than lying on a hospital ward.
When you arrive
Finding us
We're on Cathedral Road, Cardiff (CF11) — a quiet, residential street with easy parking and good bus links. You'll receive directions and parking guidance when you book.
Check in
Our reception team will welcome you and confirm your details. It takes about 2 minutes.
Consent form
A straightforward form covering the treatment, potential side effects, and your consent. No surprises — just standard clinical practice.
Clinical assessment
Dr Ros will review your blood results, medical history, and symptoms. This is where she confirms the right dose for you.
If it's your first visit, allow around 15 minutes for the consultation before your infusion begins. Return patients can go straight to the infusion chair after a brief check-in.
During the infusion
A small needle in your arm — like a blood test. Then you sit back.
The infusion uses ferric carboxymaltose (IV iron), which is delivered directly into your bloodstream through a cannula. A single session can deliver up to 1000mg of iron — what would otherwise take over five months of oral supplements.
The infusion itself takes approximately 30 minutes. Dr Ros and the clinical team monitor you throughout.
While you wait, you can:
After your infusion
Once the infusion is finished, you stay with us for 30 minutes of monitoring. This is standard practice — serious reactions are very rare, but we keep you comfortable and observed just in case.
What's normal to feel
Some patients feel a mild warmth, slight headache, or metallic taste during or shortly after the infusion. These are common and typically resolve quickly.
Can you drive home?
Yes. Most patients can drive themselves home after the monitoring period. You don't need someone to collect you.
When to call us
If you experience chest tightness, difficulty breathing, a rash, or swelling after leaving the clinic, call us immediately or go to your nearest A&E. These reactions are very rare but we want you to know what to watch for. We'll give you a printed information sheet before you leave.
The days and weeks after
When you'll feel the difference
Many patients notice significant improvement within 1–2 weeks as iron levels restore. Some feel better within days, though full benefit can take a few weeks depending on your starting point. Energy, concentration, and sleep quality are often the first things to improve.
Your GP report
Dr Ros sends a full clinical report to your GP within 24 hours of your appointment. This includes what was administered, the dose, and any clinical notes — so your GP has a complete record without you needing to explain anything.
Follow-up guidance
We'll advise on whether follow-up blood tests are needed (usually 4–6 weeks after your infusion) and how to maintain your iron levels going forward. If you need a repeat infusion in the future, simply book again — we already have your history on file.
This page was reviewed by Dr Ros Jabar, GMC-registered doctor and Medical Director at IronOx Clinic.
Now you know what to expect
Book your iron infusion in 2 minutes. No referral needed, no phone calls — just straightforward online booking.
Free telephone consultation — no deposit, no card, no obligation. You only pay if you choose to proceed with treatment.
Book Your Iron Infusion